15 Unique Twists to Enrich Your Detroit-Style Pizza


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Detroit-style pizza has its own distinct charm, but there’s always room for a little pizzazz! Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking to spice things up, here are 15 unique ways to take this classic dish to the next level. From inventive toppings to cooking techniques that allow for a crispier crust, get ready to transform your pizza nights into something truly special.

First, here is a video of how to make Detroit-Style Pizza. If you already know how to make it, skip below to the 15 ways to add flavorful twists…

Detroit-Style Pizza With Garlic Butter Crust – Brush The Thick Crust With Garlic Butter For A Savory, Crispy, And Aromatic Boost.

A delicious Detroit-style pizza with pepperoni, mozzarella, and a bowl of dipping sauce beside it.

Imagine biting into a slice of Detroit-style pizza, where the thick crust is perfectly brushed with garlic butter. This simple addition transforms the pizza into something truly special. The golden, crispy edges are not just a treat for the taste buds but also offer an aromatic experience that lingers in the air.

The image showcases a beautifully crafted pizza topped with generous slices of pepperoni and creamy mozzarella, all resting on a bed of rich tomato sauce. The bowl of dipping sauce adds an extra layer of flavor, enticing you to take that first bite.

To recreate this at home, start with your favorite pizza dough. After baking, melt butter and mix in minced garlic. Brush this mixture generously over the crust. The result? A pizza that’s crispy, aromatic, and full of savor.

Detroit-Style Pizza With Spicy Vodka Sauce – Swap Marinara For Vodka Sauce For A Creamy, Tangy, And Slightly Spicy Twist.

A delicious Detroit-style pizza topped with mozzarella cheese, spicy vodka sauce, and fresh basil leaves, with tomatoes placed around it.

Detroit-style pizza is already a favorite with its thick, airy crust and rich toppings. Now, imagine swapping the classic marinara sauce for a spicy vodka sauce. This twist adds creaminess and a tangy kick that lifts the whole pie to new heights. It’s not just pizza; it’s a flavor explosion.

In the image, you see a mouthwatering pizza topped with gooey cheese and vibrant basil leaves, sitting proudly on a wooden table. The vibrant red sauce peeks through the cheese, promising that tangy flavor. Next to the pizza are fresh tomatoes, hinting at the freshness of your ingredients.

For this recipe, gather ingredients like crushed tomatoes, heavy cream, vodka, garlic, and fresh basil. Start by making the spicy vodka sauce. Sauté garlic, then add crushed tomatoes and vodka. Simmer until thickened, and stir in cream for that luscious finish. Spread the sauce over the cheese-laden crust and watch your pizza transform!

This simple swap can turn your next pizza night into something special. Get ready to impress your friends and family with a unique take on a classic.

Detroit-Style Pizza With Extra Crispy Cheese Edges – Press Shredded Cheese Against The Pan For A Crunchy, Caramelized, And Umami-Packed Crust.

A hand holding a slice of cheese and pepperoni pizza with gooey cheese and crispy edges.

Detroit-style pizza offers a unique twist on traditional pizza. One of the best features is those extra crispy cheese edges. To achieve this, simply press shredded cheese against the pan before baking. This trick creates a crunchy, caramelized crust that adds a delightful umami flavor.

The image showcases a stunning slice of this pizza, complete with gooey cheese and pepperoni. You can see the beautiful, golden edges that are a hallmark of Detroit-style cooking. The cheese pulls away as the slice is lifted, making it look utterly irresistible.

To make your own at home, start with a thick, rectangular pizza dough. Spread sauce over the top, and don’t forget to load up on cheese and your favorite toppings. Bake until the edges are crispy and the cheese is perfectly melted. The result is a pizza that’s not just a meal but an experience.

Detroit-Style Pizza With Smoked Gouda Cheese Blend – Mix In Smoked Gouda For A Rich, Savory, And Smoky Depth.

A freshly baked Detroit-style pizza topped with tomatoes and herbs on a wooden table.

Picture a beautifully baked Detroit-style pizza, with its thick crust and crispy edges. This one, topped with vibrant red tomatoes and sprinkled with fresh herbs, bursts with color and flavor. The golden-brown cheese is melting perfectly, promising a delicious bite. The setting showcases a warm, inviting atmosphere with natural light streaming in, making it hard to resist.

Now, let’s talk about that smoked Gouda cheese blend. Mixing this cheese into your pizza elevates the entire dish. The smoky, rich flavor complements the tangy tomato sauce and fresh toppings. It’s an easy way to add depth and sophistication to your pizza night.

To make this delicious combo, start with the classic Detroit-style dough. Then, layer on a generous amount of smoked Gouda along with your usual mozzarella. Add fresh tomatoes for that juicy pop and sprinkle with herbs for freshness. Bake until bubbly and golden. You’ll be amazed at how this simple switch can transform your pizza!

Detroit-Style Pizza With Pickled Jalapeño Kick – Add Pickled Jalapeños For A Spicy, Tangy, And Juicy Contrast.

A delicious Detroit-style pizza topped with cheese, marinara sauce, and pickled jalapeños on a wooden cutting board.

Detroit-style pizza is a treat for the senses, and adding pickled jalapeños takes it to another level. The image showcases a perfectly baked pizza with a golden crust, topped with gooey cheese, vibrant red sauce, and those eye-catching green jalapeños. This combination not only makes for a stunning presentation but also offers a unique flavor profile.

The spicy and tangy kick of pickled jalapeños contrasts beautifully with the rich cheese and savory sauce. Each bite delivers a satisfying crunch, followed by a burst of heat that elevates the pizza experience. For those who love a bit of spice in their meals, this is a must-try.

To make this pizza, you will need pizza dough, cheese, your favorite marinara sauce, and pickled jalapeños. Spread the sauce over the dough, sprinkle on the cheese, and arrange the jalapeños on top before baking. Once it’s out of the oven, slice it up and enjoy the juicy contrast of flavors!

Detroit-Style Pizza With Hot Honey Drizzle – Drizzle Hot Honey Post-Bake For A Sweet, Spicy, And Sticky Finish.

A delicious Detroit-style pizza topped with mozzarella, meatballs, and basil, drizzled with hot honey.

Detroit-style pizza is known for its thick, airy crust that is both crispy and chewy. The image showcases a beautiful pizza topped with fresh mozzarella, savory meatballs, and vibrant basil leaves. The golden crust looks inviting and perfectly baked, making it an excellent base for a unique twist.

To take your pizza to the next level, add a hot honey drizzle after baking. This finishing touch gives a sweet and spicy kick that pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors. It’s a simple yet effective way to enhance your pizza experience.

Start by preparing your pizza dough and adding your favorite toppings. Once it’s baked to perfection, drizzle the hot honey over the top. The honey will melt slightly and create a sticky, mouthwatering glaze that you won’t forget. This combination of flavors and textures is sure to impress anyone at your table!

Detroit-Style Pizza With Crispy Cup Pepperoni – Use Thick-Cut Pepperoni That Curls Into Crispy Cups For A Chewy, Crispy, And Salty Topping.

A slice of Detroit-style pizza topped with crispy cup pepperoni and green herbs on a wooden surface.

Imagine biting into a slice of Detroit-style pizza topped with thick-cut pepperoni. The pepperoni curls up into crispy cups, creating a delightful texture that contrasts perfectly with the chewy crust.

This style of pepperoni not only adds a chewy bite but also a salty punch that enhances the entire slice. Each cup traps a bit of grease, which adds to the overall flavor and richness.

For the best results, choose high-quality pepperoni that maintains its shape during baking. You’ll want to layer them on generously so every bite is packed with that crispy goodness.

To make this pizza, start with your favorite dough. Roll it out into a rectangle and place it in a well-oiled pan. Spread a layer of cheese, then top with the pepperoni slices, allowing them to overlap. Bake until the cheese is bubbly and the pepperoni is crispy.

Finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for color and added flavor. This not only makes the pizza look appealing but also adds a fresh taste that complements the rich toppings.

Detroit-Style Pizza With Balsamic Reduction Drizzle – A Touch Of Balsamic Glaze Adds A Sweet, Tangy, And Umami-Rich Depth.

A delicious Detroit-style pizza topped with pepperoni and basil, drizzled with balsamic reduction.

Picture a classic Detroit-style pizza, but with a twist. The pizza in the image is beautifully spread out, showing off its golden crust and vibrant toppings. The pepperoni is perfectly arranged, and the melted cheese simply beckons you to take a bite. But what really catches the eye is that rich balsamic reduction drizzle. It weaves across the pizza, adding a stunning contrast to the bright colors of the ingredients.

The addition of balsamic glaze gives this pizza a sweet and tangy flavor that complements the savory elements. You might be wondering how to achieve this deliciousness at home. Start with your favorite pizza dough, top it with a generous layer of cheese, and arrange your pepperoni. Once it’s baked to golden perfection, finish it off with a drizzle of balsamic reduction and some fresh basil leaves. This simple step takes the dish to another level, creating a balance of flavors that’s both satisfying and unique.

Detroit-Style Pizza With Roasted Garlic Paste – Spread Roasted Garlic For A Buttery, Umami-Rich, And Sweet Flavor.

A slice of Detroit-style pizza with roasted garlic paste, basil leaves on a wooden cutting board.

Imagine biting into a slice of Detroit-style pizza topped with roasted garlic paste. This addition gives the pizza a buttery, umami-rich flavor that’s hard to resist. The golden crust holds a blend of melted cheese and savory toppings, perfectly complemented by the sweetness of roasted garlic.

The fresh basil leaves scattered around add a touch of freshness, balancing out the rich flavors. It’s a delightful way to elevate your pizza game while bringing in that amazing garlic goodness.

To make this mouthwatering pizza, start by spreading roasted garlic paste over the crust before adding your favorite toppings. You’ll need ingredients like mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, and a simple tomato sauce. Bake it until bubbly and golden, and you’ll have a dish that’s sure to impress.

Detroit-Style Pizza With Herb-Infused Dough – Knead Basil, Oregano, And Rosemary Into The Dough For A Fragrant, Earthy, And Flavorful Bite.

A freshly baked Detroit-style pizza topped with tomatoes and basil, sitting on a wooden table.

Imagine slicing into a delicious Detroit-style pizza, where the aroma of fresh herbs fills the air. The image captures this mouth-watering delight, showcasing a golden crust topped with vibrant tomatoes, gooey cheese, and lush basil leaves. The contrast of colors along with the herbs hints at a burst of flavors waiting to be experienced.

To create this herb-infused dough, you’ll need a simple set of ingredients. Begin with all-purpose flour, water, yeast, salt, and your choice of herbs like basil, oregano, and rosemary. Knead these herbs right into the dough to enhance each bite with earthy flavors. After mixing, let the dough rise until it doubles in size, giving it that perfect fluffy texture.

Once the dough is ready, stretch it into a well-oiled pan to create the iconic Detroit-style shape. Add a layer of tomato sauce, followed by generous amounts of cheese and those colorful cherry tomatoes. Finish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs before popping it in the oven. Bake until the cheese is bubbling and the edges are beautifully crisp.

Detroit-Style Pizza With Crispy Bacon Bits – Sprinkle Crispy Bacon On Top For A Salty, Crunchy, And Smoky Boost.

A delicious Detroit-style pizza topped with crispy bacon bits, served on a wooden table.

Picture a slice of Detroit-style pizza topped with crispy bacon bits. The combination of gooey mozzarella and the rich, smoky flavor of the bacon creates a mouthwatering treat. Each slice is not just a bite; it’s an experience.

The crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch that enhances the overall texture. You’ll love how the salty bits contrast with the sweet tomato sauce and the fluffy crust. It’s a simple addition, but it takes the pizza to another level.

To make this pizza, you’ll need a few ingredients: pizza dough, mozzarella cheese, tomato sauce, and, of course, crispy bacon. Start by preparing your dough and spreading it in a rectangular pan. Layer on the cheese, followed by the sauce, and sprinkle those crispy bacon bits generously on top. Bake until golden and bubbly.

This twist on Detroit-style pizza is perfect for casual gatherings or a cozy night in. Serve it up hot, and watch everyone enjoy this salty, crunchy, and smoky boost. It’s a crowd-pleaser!

Detroit-Style Pizza With Pesto Swirl – Drizzle Pesto For A Herby, Nutty, And Aromatic Enhancement.

A delicious Detroit-style pizza with pepperoni and fresh basil, drizzled with pesto on a wooden table.

Detroit-style pizza is known for its thick crust and delicious toppings. Adding a pesto swirl takes it to another level. This herby, nutty enhancement adds a unique twist to the classic flavors.

In the image, you see a beautifully baked pizza topped with pepperoni and fresh basil leaves. The green pesto is drizzled on top, creating a striking contrast against the golden crust and vibrant toppings. The colors pop against the wooden table, inviting you to take a slice.

For this recipe, you will need pizza dough, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, pepperoni, fresh basil, and pesto. Start by spreading the marinara sauce and adding cheese and toppings. Once baked, drizzle the pesto on top just before serving for that fresh, aromatic kick.

Detroit-Style Pizza With Caramelized Onion Layer – Add Caramelized Onions For A Sweet, Tender, And Umami-Packed Bite.

A delicious Detroit-style pizza topped with caramelized onions, cheese, and sauce, placed on a wooden table.

Take a look at this delicious Detroit-style pizza, showcasing a beautiful layer of caramelized onions. The golden-brown crust is thick and fluffy, the perfect vessel for the rich toppings. Those onions are not just for looks; they bring a sweet, tender texture that complements the savory sauce and cheese.

Caramelized onions can really elevate the pizza experience. When cooked slowly, they become soft and sweet, adding a delightful umami punch. Spread them generously on top of the pizza to create a wonderful contrast with the tangy tomato sauce and gooey cheese beneath.

To make your own version, start with a basic pizza dough. Once it’s ready, sauté sliced onions in olive oil until they turn a rich brown. Then, layer the onions over your cheese before adding the sauce for that distinct Detroit-style flip. This method not only enhances flavor but also ensures that every bite is packed with goodness.

Detroit-Style Pizza With Roasted Red Peppers – Use Fire-Roasted Red Peppers For A Smoky, Juicy, And Slightly Sweet Topping.

Delicious slice of Detroit-style pizza topped with fire-roasted red peppers

Detroit-style pizza is truly one-of-a-kind, and adding fire-roasted red peppers takes it to another level. These vibrant peppers bring a mix of smokiness, juiciness, and subtle sweetness that complements the rich flavors of the cheese and sauce.

The image captures this delicious creation beautifully. You see a slice of golden, crispy crust topped with cheese and slathered in sauce, with those bright red peppers sitting proudly atop. The peppers don’t just add color; they provide a fresh crunch that balances the gooeyness of the cheese.

Using fire-roasted peppers elevates your pizza experience. They infuse a depth of flavor that raw peppers simply can’t match. Plus, they’re super easy to work with. Just toss them on the pizza before baking, and let the heat work its magic!

For the perfect Detroit-style pizza with fire-roasted red peppers, here’s a simple recipe. You’ll need pizza dough, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and, of course, fire-roasted red peppers. Preheat your oven, shape your dough in a rectangular pan, layer the cheese, add the sauce, and finish it with those beautiful peppers. Bake until golden, and you’re in for a treat!

Detroit-Style Pizza With Blue Cheese Crumbles – Sprinkle Blue Cheese For A Tangy, Bold, And Creamy Finish.

Freshly baked Detroit-style pizza topped with blue cheese crumbles and tomato sauce on a wooden table

Detroit-style pizza is known for its thick crust and unique toppings. Adding blue cheese crumbles takes this classic to a new level. The image captures a freshly baked pizza topped with a bright red sauce, creamy mozzarella, and generous chunks of blue cheese. This combination not only looks appealing but adds a punch of flavor.

The blue cheese provides a rich and tangy contrast to the sweetness of the tomato sauce. It melts beautifully, creating a creamy texture that enhances each bite. You’ll want to sprinkle the blue cheese evenly across the pizza to ensure every piece gets that savory kick.

To make this pizza at home, start with a thick crust dough. Spread your sauce generously, add slices of mozzarella, and top with crumbles of blue cheese. Bake until golden brown, and watch the magic happen. The result is a pizza that’s crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and bursting with flavor.

Pair this pizza with a fresh salad or your favorite dipping sauce for a full meal. Don’t forget to share with friends—they’ll love the bold twist on a classic!

Detroit-Style Pizza